Bethenny Frankel, the 55-year-old reality star and entrepreneur, made headlines on Saturday night by strutting down the catwalk at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Runway Show during Miami Swim Week. She became the oldest model ever to walk the show's runway, a milestone that has ignited a fierce debate about age and confidence.
High-Energy Runway Debut
Frankel, known for her role on The Real Housewives of New York City, showcased a variety of swimwear at the event held at W South Beach. She proudly displayed her toned physique in an array of bikinis and one-pieces, including a blue-and-yellow striped crochet bikini with a G-string back and a black halter bandeau top with micro bottoms. In her Instagram posts, which garnered thousands of likes, she captioned one video: "55 who?" and later joked, "Whipping you nosy B's into shape."
Behind-the-Scenes Moments
Frankel also shared behind-the-scenes clips with fellow models, including the Nader sisters and Alix Earle, wearing a seashell bikini top. She danced and twirled alongside Earle, 25, in a high-cut, Baywatch-inspired one-piece. Reflecting on the experience, Frankel wrote on Instagram: "The best part of this has been the journey... I'm a 55-year-old @si_swimsuit model (the oldest one … js). And to all my Nosy B's, I can't wait to see what's next either."
Mixed Reactions from Fans
Frankel's posts sparked a lively debate in the comments section. Supporters praised her as an "inspiration," with one fan commenting, "I'm 56, currently recovering from two knee surgeries. I'd kill to be her right now. You go girl!!!" Another added, "We should embrace each other, and she is in great shape." However, critics labeled her enthusiastic runway walks as "cringe," with one writing, "OMG, this was so awkward to watch. Poor thing." Another said, "She looks great, while at the same time I didn't need to see this."
Double Standards on Age
Frankel's loyal fanbase quickly defended her, pointing out double standards regarding women and aging. One supporter noted: "It's interesting how a confident woman in her 50s enjoying her body receives so much criticism, while a man of the same age in great shape is often celebrated as attractive and charismatic. If she were 25, many of these comments wouldn't exist."
Frankel's Take on Age
Speaking to Page Six Style last month, Frankel admitted she was surprised by the public's focus on her age. "People walk up to me on the street like, 'Thank you.' I'm like, 'You're welcome,'" she said. "I didn't think anything about my age until everyone made such a big deal about it after I walked … So I'm happy."
